Sarri hails Barkley and Morata after Blues win
Maurizio Sarri hailed Ross Barkley after the rejuvenated Chelsea midfielder played a key role in the 3-0 win at Southampton.
Barkley celebrated his England recall by scoring his first goal for the Blues and setting up a goal for Eden Hazard at St Mary’s.
After struggling to overcome a hamstring injury last season following his move from Everton, Barkley has regained his fitness and form under Sarri.
He was given the nod ahead of Mateo Kovacic to start Sunday’s game and more than justified Sarri’s decision.
“Today he has played very well and I am really happy with him,” boss Sarri said.
“From the beginning he has improved day by day, week by week and match by match.
“So I am very happy for him. He had a serious injury in the previous season but he is improving.
“Potentially he is a great player. He has quality in the physical and technically point of view and now is improving in the tactical point of view.
“He will become a very important player in England and for the national team.”
An excellent day for Chelsea was rounded off by Alvaro Morata scoring in injury time.
Morata, on as a substitute, netted after being set up by Hazard.
Having endured much frustration in front of goal since joining Chelsea, the Spanish striker now has two in two games, with his strike against the Saints coming after Thursday’s Europa League winner against MOL Vidi.
Sarri is therefore confident that Morata has now turned a corner.
“I am really very happy for him,” Sarri said.
“It is always very important for the striker to score and for him score in the Europa League and today.
“Alvaro has played very well in the Europa League and today in the last 30 minutes. I think we can restart easily now.”
